kolestyramiini

Kolestyramiini, also known as cholestyramine, is a medication primarily used to treat hyperlipidemia, specifically high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called bile acid sequestrants. Its mechanism of action involves binding to bile acids in the intestine. Bile acids are produced by the liver from cholesterol and are essential for the digestion of fats. When kolestyramiini binds to these bile acids, it prevents their reabsorption into the bloodstream. This leads to the liver using more cholesterol from the blood to produce new bile acids, thereby lowering blood cholesterol levels.

In addition to its cholesterol-lowering effects, kolestyramiini is also used to relieve diarrhea associated with certain conditions, such as Crohn's disease or surgical removal of parts of the intestine. This is because bile acids, when present in excess in the colon, can irritate the intestinal lining and cause diarrhea. By sequestering these bile acids, kolestyramiini can help to firm up stools and reduce the frequency of bowel movements.

Kolestyramiini is typically administered orally in powder form, which is mixed with water or other liquids before consumption. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning it primarily acts within the gastrointestinal tract. Common side effects can include constipation, bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. Due to its binding properties, it can also interfere with the absorption of other medications, so it is usually recommended to take other drugs at least one hour before or four to six hours after taking kolestyramiini.